Financial Crime World

Mauritania’s Lack of Transparency: Whistleblowers and Journalists Left in the Dark

In Mauritania, a country plagued by corruption and secrecy, whistleblowers and journalists are left with little to no protection when it comes to disclosing sensitive information. The lack of a law on access to public information has created an environment where individuals who dare to speak out against wrongdoing face severe penalties.

According to Article 72 of the Penal Code, publishing information concerning national defense can result in up to 20 years of hard labor. Even if the intent of the disclosure is not treasonous, the penalty is reduced to a maximum of 10 years (Article 73). Publishing information related to measures taken to discover and arrest a perpetrator of treason is punishable by 20 years’ hard labor (Article 76).

  • Employees who communicate their employer’s trade secrets to foreigners or Mauritanians residing in a foreign country can face imprisonment for up to five years.
  • However, there are no specific provisions for journalists or non-employees who divulge such secrets.

Whistleblower Cases: A Lack of Transparency

Despite the importance of whistleblower protection, there have been no known cases of whistleblowers being published in Mauritania. It is impossible to establish whether there have been cases of whistleblowing that have been hushed up or if the lack of legislative protection has deterred individuals from disclosing sensitive information.

Recommendations: Strengthening Protection for Whistleblowers and Journalists

To promote a culture of transparency and accountability, the Mauritanian government should consider developing a law offering extensive and adequate protection to whistleblowers. Strengthening actions to combat corruption and promoting good governance would also create an environment favorable to whistleblowing.

  • Measures should be taken to protect the rights of journalists, including freedom of expression and press freedom.
  • The growing concern regarding restrictions on these fundamental freedoms is alarming and requires immediate attention.

Knowledge, Support, and Action Centers

In Mauritania, there are no sufficiently reliable organizations that actively promote good governance and provide knowledge and expertise to strengthen democratic practices. It is crucial for civil society organizations, NGOs, and citizen movements to play a more significant role in promoting transparency and accountability.

Conclusion

The absence of a law on access to public information has created an environment where whistleblowers and journalists are left without protection. The Mauritanian government must take immediate action to develop legislation that safeguards the rights of those who dare to speak out against wrongdoing, ensuring a culture of transparency and accountability.